Hey there. I have a word problem here, I think this is the right place to post. I am trying to get back into understanding algebra but I ran into a word problem that I can not begin to think of a formula able to solve that D=R*T can't. I guess I need help understanding how to formulate the problem;

A freight train left Washington traveling
east 7.8 hours before a diesel train. The
diesel train traveled in the opposite direction
going 17.1 mph slower then the freight train
for ten hours after which time the trains
were 941 mi. apart. How fast did the freight
train travel?

Your attention is greatly appreciated. Thank you!

August 16th 2012, 09:45 PM

richard1234

Re: Distance and Speed related word problem

You can use D = rt here.

For example, suppose the freight train traveled at r mph for 17.8 hours (because it traveled for 7.8 hrs, then another 10 hrs). Then the diesel train traveled at r - 17.1 mph for 10 hours. We can add their distances because the trains are in the opposite direction:

Solve for r.

August 17th 2012, 01:35 AM

Iavan

Re: Distance and Speed related word problem

Thank you very much! It makes a lot more sense now.

August 17th 2012, 07:24 AM

Wilmer

Re: Distance and Speed related word problem

Quote:

Originally Posted by richard1234

You can use D = rt here.
For example, suppose the freight train traveled at r mph for 17.8 hours (because it traveled for 7.8 hrs, then another 10 hrs). Then the diesel train traveled at r - 17.1 mph for 10 hours. We can add their distances because the trains are in the opposite direction:
Solve for r.

Disagree; 941 is not the distance travelled: it is distance that the 2 trains are apart...
(or did I miss something?):

You can now use any speed for f (greater than 17.1); say 100, then:
[1] x = 27.8(100) + 770 = 3550 miles.

Diesel's speed will be 100 - 17.1 = 82.9
Distance = 82.9(10) = 829

1780 + 829 + 941 = 3550

So for unique solution, more information is required (Wondering)

August 18th 2012, 09:13 AM

HallsofIvy

Re: Distance and Speed related word problem

Yes, it is possible to interpret the problem in such a way that cannot solve it! It is also possible to interpret in such a way that we can and that makes much more sense. We are told that "A freight train left Washington" going east and that later a diesel left in the opposite direction. Although it is not said explicitely that language certainly implies that the diesel also left from Washington. It simply makes no sense to assume that the diesel left from some competely undisclosed location.

August 18th 2012, 09:53 AM

Wilmer

Re: Distance and Speed related word problem

Re-read original...agree with you; guess I'm too used to these being 2 "things" starting from different locations...

August 21st 2012, 02:19 AM

Iavan

Re: Distance and Speed related word problem

I worked out richard1234's equation and it works out to r=40.32~ mph. The answer key states it is just 40 mph. I'm wondering if the 40.32 answer is correct but just asks to round off (40).

Thank you guys for giving your deliberations. :)

August 21st 2012, 05:30 AM

Wilmer

Re: Distance and Speed related word problem

You should get exactly 40 mph right off the bat.
f - freight train speed